“Once You’re Arrested, You Lose So Much”: A Photovoice Study on the Pretrial Experience in New Jersey

Overview

This report examines the far-reaching consequences of justice system involvement on mental health, physical health, and well-being. Through photographs taken by people who had experienced New Jersey’s pretrial system as defendants, as well as discussions with the photographers,  the research highlights the challenges individuals face to their mental health, physical health, and overall well-being due to involvement in the pretrial system as defendants. The photographers also suggested ways to address some of the issues they faced. The results of this photovoice study are not meant to be representative of the larger New Jersey population’s experiences with the pretrial system. Instead, the study provides an opportunity to give voice to the perspectives and recommendations of a small number of people.

Key Findings

• Wellbeing: The pretrial period is marked by stress, confusion, and anxiety, with participants reporting declines in both mental and physical health.
• Family Relationships: Pretrial detention strained relationships, leading to lost moments such as being unable to visit dying relatives or attend important family events.
• Financial Stability: Arrest and pretrial monitoring negatively impacted participants’ employment opportunities, housing stability, and overall economic wellbeing.
• Stigma: Participants described feeling dehumanized and socially isolated due to the stigma associated with arrest, even before being found guilty or innocent.

Participant Recommendations

• Provide clear, accessible explanations of pretrial processes and timelines to reduce confusion and stress.
• Strengthen representation by ensuring robust public defense and legal advocacy during early pretrial stages.
• Improve access to physical and mental healthcare, both during pretrial detention and after release.
• Reduce the intensity of pretrial monitoring and use less restrictive conditions wherever possible.
• Offer supportive services for individuals and families, such as peer mentors, benefits navigation, and family therapy programs.

Implications for Policy and Practice

The NJ CARE study highlights the need for reforms to reduce the harms of pretrial involvement and improve outcomes for individuals and families. Recommendations include enhancing communication within the system, investing in holistic support services, and prioritizing equity in decision-making processes. These findings underscore the broader societal costs of pretrial system practices and the critical need for continued criminal justice reform.